Are you in the market for a treadmill? If you’re like most people, you want a treadmill with an incline or elevation. Leaning on a treadmill used to be considered an added feature. These days, most motorized treadmills include an incline option. Apparently the difference between the models is in the amount of lift available.
If you’re looking for an inexpensive treadmill, or one under $1,000, you’ll probably find that most treadmills only come with a 10-12% rise. That might be enough for most people, especially those new to treadmill exercise. Mid-priced treadmills ($1,500+) have 12-15% lifts. Most premium treadmills have 15% inclines.
What kind of physical condition are you in? If you’re in top shape and looking for a challenge, then you’ll probably want a 15% incline. However, if you’re looking for a treadmill just for gentle walking, the 10% might be perfect for you.
The mother of elevation treadmills is the incline trainer. This is a treadmill that gives you much more incline than regular treadmills, up to 30%.
You may have heard of another new entry into the treadmill market. How about the Bowflex climber? The Bowflex Treadclimber is a hybrid stair climber and treadmill. Treadclimbers have two separate, smaller treadmills (one for each foot) for you to walk on. These individual belts also move up and down, to accommodate each step you take.
Lest you think Bowflex is the only option in this market, keep in mind that Nordic Track also has an incline trainer available, the Nordic Track X5. However, this machine only has one treadmill, like a traditional treadmill, and offers lifts of up to 30%. It’s not really the same as a treadmill, but it’s an option for someone who might have all the features of a Bowflex treadmill.
Keep in mind that the lift offered by an incline trainer is much more than most people need. But if you want to burn up to 500 calories in 20 minutes, you can do it with one of these machines. The downside is the price. While they’re great for burning calories, they cost more than $1,600 for basic models. These units are primarily used in commercial settings such as gyms or office fitness facilities.
Why are treadmill inclines desirable? The steep incline can help supercharge your calorie burn. Double or even triple the calories can be burned by walking on an incline or slope. walking on a level surface. Also, if you’re looking to incorporate intervals into your training, walking on an incline for 30 seconds to 2 minutes can be the perfect way to interval train and increase your post-workout calorie burn.
So it’s great that a treadmill comes with an incline. Whether your treadmill has elevation or not, wear high-quality walking shoes and have fun with your workout!
